Event

In partnership with SIFF, LHPAI presents a free film screening of the controversial and illuminating, documentary BOUND: AFRICANS VERSUS AFRICAN AMERICANS from Kenyan-born Peres Owino. Director Owino uses testimonials to expose the seldom-discussed ways that Africans and African Americans view each other, and looks at the cultures' shared history to foster mutual understanding.

Bound is a hard-hitting documentary that addresses the little-discussed tension that exists between Africans and African Americans. The film opens with a collage of personal testimonials that expose the rift as more than just childish name-calling with deeper wounds that span hundreds of years. Through exploring the historical experiences of both African Americans and Africans, the filmmakers provide perspectives that take the events of history and brings to the fore the direct and indirect effects of slavery and colonization on populations that last for generations with no easy solution. Ultimately, BOUND focuses on the similar things that bind Africans and African Americans , culminating with ideas that promote reconciliation without assuming that it is a simple fix. Owino has created an engaging, substantive, and compassionate film that will be a discussion starter and a catalyst for change across the African diaspora. The film's exemplary investigation of cultural relations succeeds in reflecting on all societies the importance of examining the ethnic, political, and geographical prejudices within us all.

Panel discussion follows film screening.

Peres Owino is a Kenyan-born actress, writer, and dancer. Her latest projects include a lead role in Simon Brand's feature film Default, a co-starring role in the FX TV show "Terriers," and directing her original play, "Cut," at the Walt Disney Concert Hall, an official selection of the REDCAT Fall Studio. Peres is also producing her new play "Stained Sheets," a follow-up to her successful one-woman play "Beauty for Ashes."